B2 • Lesson 48
Vocabulary and reading to prepare for your lesson
Click each word to see its meaning and an example.
To admit or acknowledge the truth of something, often reluctantly.
"I must concede that the opposing viewpoint has merit, even if I disagree with the conclusions."
An argument or observation that is legitimate and deserves acknowledgment.
"That's a valid point about resource constraints, which definitely affects implementation."
A deliberate communicative approach designed to achieve a persuasive effect.
"Using concession as a rhetorical strategy can paradoxically strengthen your argument."
The quality of being seen as honest, knowledgeable, and trustworthy in intellectual matters.
"Acknowledging opposing viewpoints enhances your intellectual credibility."
A restriction, boundary, or condition that affects the scope or applicability of something.
"This study has limitations: the sample size was small and the context is specific."
An important qualification or condition that must be considered.
"With the caveat that further research is needed, these findings suggest progress."
Used to concede a valid point while maintaining your overall position.
"I acknowledge that costs are significant, but the benefits outweigh the expenses."
Used to concede a point before pivoting to a contrasting idea.
"It's true that implementation will be challenging, yet these challenges are surmountable."
Used to acknowledge a difficulty or point against one's own position.
"Admittedly, there are risks involved, but they are acceptable given the potential gains."
Used to acknowledge the legitimacy of an opposing view before continuing your argument.
"To be fair, that perspective reflects genuine concerns about sustainability."
Used to introduce a contrasting point after conceding something.
"Cost is a consideration; nevertheless, we cannot let financial constraints prevent progress."
Used to concede a point as a given before proceeding with your argument.
"Granted that perfect solutions don't exist, this approach offers the best available option."
Paradoxically, the act of conceding—acknowledging valid points or limitations in one's own argument—can actually strengthen rather than weaken persuasive discourse. This rhetorical strategy reflects intellectual honesty and builds credibility with audiences who recognize that sophisticated positions rarely emerge from ignoring opposing perspectives. The key lies in understanding concession not as defeat but as a strategic communicative choice that demonstrates analytical depth.
Effective concession involves several components. First, the speaker must genuinely identify legitimate points within opposing arguments or acknowledge real limitations in their own position. Surface-level acknowledgments that patently dismiss the conceded point undermine credibility rather than enhancing it. Audiences can sense insincerity, and such false concessions appear manipulative.
Second, concession functions as a rhetorical pivot. After acknowledging a valid concern, the speaker reframes how that concern relates to their overall argument. Rather than allowing a conceded point to derail their position, skilled communicators use concession as a launching point for renewed argument. Phrases like "Nevertheless" or "Granted that" signal this transition, indicating that while the conceded point is valid, it does not overturn the speaker's primary claim.
Furthermore, concession demonstrates intellectual humility. In an era where polarization often prevents genuine dialogue, speakers who acknowledge limitations and competing perspectives stand out as trustworthy and thoughtful. This trust becomes an asset in subsequent argumentation, as audiences become more receptive to claims made by speakers who have demonstrated willingness to engage fairly with alternative viewpoints.
The distinction between concession and capitulation is essential. Conceding a valid point does not require abandoning your position; rather, it involves integrating legitimate concerns into a more comprehensive framework that maintains your core argument while acknowledging its boundaries and limitations.
~410 words • B2 Level
Think about these questions before your lesson. You don't need to write answers—just consider your thoughts.
For each question above, write maximum 3 keywords — no sentences. Then practise speaking your answer out loud from just the keywords.
Q1: "How does conceding a valid point differ from admitting defeat? Can you maintain your position while acknowledging opposing views?"
Your 3 keywords: / /
Now say your answer out loud. Speak for about 30 seconds from just your keywords.
Q2: "When you've seen someone concede a point effectively, how did it affect your perception of their credibility and argument?"
Your 3 keywords: / /
Speak for 30 seconds. Let your brain build the sentences from the keywords.
Q3: "What are some caveats or limitations in positions you hold? How would you explain them transparently?"
Your 3 keywords: / /
Say your answer out loud — don't just think it! Your keywords are enough.
Remember: keywords only. Your brain does the rest. Mistakes are good — they mean you're practising speaking, not reading.
Preparation time: ~15 minutes